Helen Law is a dedicated Physiotherapist. Practicing at Greater Niagara General Hospital in Niagara Falls, ON, Helen Law is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards. Helen Law's focus is addressing a wide range of muscle, joint, bone, tendon, and ligament conditions. This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and strains, to chronic pain management, arthritis care, and comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation. Helen Law serves adults.
Helen Law completed their degree in Physiotherapy from Ulster University (Graduating Class of 1978). With extensive clinical experience, Helen Law is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based physiotherapy practices. Helen Law has a particular interest and further training in areas such as Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.
Helen Law employs a patient-centered approach, actively involving individuals in their treatment planning and goal setting; promoting preventative care and long-term wellness for the Niagara Falls community through proactive physiotherapy. Helen Law offers consultations in English.
Helen Law provides skilled physiotherapist care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Arthritis
- Gout (Management of Musculoskeletal Impairments): Physiotherapy to address residual joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and functional loss after an acute gout attack has subsided, or to help manage musculoskeletal impairments and tophi-related issues associated with chronic gout, always in conjunction with appropriate medical management for urate control.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) & Other Inflammatory Arthropathies: Physiotherapy as an important part of a multidisciplinary team approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), helping to minimize disease impact and maximize quality of life.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine (especially the sacroiliac joints and vertebrae), leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of vertebrae, which can result in a stooped posture if not managed.
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Supportive physiotherapy for individuals with psoriatic arthritis, focusing on managing joint pain and swelling, maintaining range of motion and strength, improving function, and providing advice on activity modification and joint protection.
Common Musculoskeletal
- Low Back Pain (Acute or Chronic): Lower back issues that restrict your ability to bend, lift, sit for long periods, or enjoy your usual activities without discomfort.
- Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. Diagnosis for physiotherapist is based on individual assessment, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Helen Law can assess your needs.
- Postural Assessment and Correction: Helping you understand how your posture impacts your musculoskeletal health and providing you with tools for lasting postural improvement and pain relief.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Assessment: A complete assessment of your musculoskeletal system to pinpoint issues, set clear rehabilitation goals, and get you started on the path to recovery.
- Patient Education & Self-Management Strategies: Empowering you with a clear understanding of your condition, its causes, and practical tools for effective self-management and lasting relief.
- Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Developing muscular strength and endurance to aid in injury recovery, support affected joints, improve biomechanics, and enhance athletic performance or demanding physical tasks.
- Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Specific stretches designed by your therapist to target tight muscle groups relevant to your condition, helping to improve your flexibility and reduce your risk of injury.
- General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Structured physical activities and exercises aimed at helping you safely regain strength, stamina, and confidence in your body's abilities, tailored to your current level.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Helen Law, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.
All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Physiotherapists in ON and the standards set by The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
At Greater Niagara General Hospital, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Helen Law frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- It's truly rewarding for Helen Law to witness patients conquer that burning pain between my shoulder blades from too much computer work and experience resuming gardening, hobbies, or household tasks without strain or discomfort. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in playing their musical instrument (guitar, piano, violin, etc.) for extended periods again.
- Helen Law frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of persistent dizziness that isn't a spinning vertigo but makes me feel unsteady. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets a reduction in nerve-related symptoms like tingling or numbness and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain.
- Rediscover your ability to returning to dancing, whether it's ballet, salsa, or just for fun without the constant burden of recovering from a painful and limiting work-related injury (WCB/CNESST/WorkSafe claim). Helen Law focuses on evidence-based treatment plans that lead to feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health, integrating various therapeutic techniques for optimal and lasting results.
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of widespread muscle pain and fatigue that my doctor thinks might be fibromyalgia? Helen Law works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of developing better body awareness and understanding of healthy movement patterns. This might involve specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and a home program, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities, such as reading a good book for hours without experiencing neck pain or headaches.
Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Helen Law, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Helen Law's practice at Greater Niagara General Hospital is situated in the Downtown Niagara Falls (Queen St area) neighborhood of Niagara Falls. The clinic is conveniently located near Journey Behind the Falls and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Our clinic is accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- Is physiotherapy covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- OHIP generally does NOT cover physiotherapy services in private outpatient clinics for most of the population. Publicly funded physiotherapy is available in specific situations (e.g., post-hospitalization for certain conditions, for children/youth, seniors, or through Community Physiotherapy Clinics/Family Health Teams), but eligibility criteria are strict and there may be waitlists. Always check your private/extended health insurance plans, as many offer significant physiotherapy coverage for services in private clinics. Verify your specific eligibility for any public coverage directly with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Does Greater Niagara General Hospital offer direct billing to private insurance companies?
- While we do not offer direct billing at this time, we provide detailed official receipts that you can easily submit to your insurer for reimbursement according to your plan. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. Always confirm your specific coverage details, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductible requirements, directly with your insurance provider, as plans vary significantly. You are responsible for any portion not covered by your insurance.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiotherapist in ON?
- Patients in ON can typically see a Physiotherapist directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private/extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. Check your insurance policy before your first appointment.
- What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?
- Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiotherapist would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.
- How long do physiotherapy appointments typically last?
- Your initial visit is around an hour long for a comprehensive assessment. Follow-up sessions are generally between 30 and 45 minutes, adjustable based on your needs. Your Physiotherapist will advise.
- Can physiotherapy help prevent injuries or recurring pain?
- Yes! Physiotherapy plays a significant role in injury prevention and managing recurring pain. Your Physiotherapist can identify underlying risk factors and address them through targeted exercises, education, ergonomic advice, and activity modification to reduce your risk of injury and manage chronic conditions.
Greater Niagara General Hospital
5546 Portage Rd.
Niagara Falls, ON, L2G 1J1
Phone: (905) 358-4918
Helen Law is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
Registration Number: XXX69
Verify registration with The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/display-member-contact/?id=8f148699-8902-e811-8134-480fcff4f671
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.